Dental Implants Treatment
A dental implant is essentially a titanium screw that holds your missing tooth strongly against the jaw. It is the replacement of tooth roots.
Who Needs Dental Implants?
Anyone who is missing a tooth, whether because of surgical extraction, decayed tooth loss, or tooth loss due to an accident, can get dental implants. When it comes to dental implants, it is best to opt for the treatment soon after you lose the tooth. If you let the space sit empty, the jaw beneath it can erode and implantation can become tricky after a while.
It is necessary to fill any gap from a lost tooth as soon as possible; otherwise, the teeth around the space can start gaping out giving space for more tartar buildup and gradual teeth misalignment.
Are Dental Implants Permanent?
Yes, unlike dentures, bridges, or crowns, dental implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth. They act just like regular teeth and require regular care. You look aesthetic and are functional as well.
How Is Dental Implant Surgery Done?
- On the day of the surgery, you are injected with anaesthesia so that you stay more or less comfortable during the procedure.
- The gum around the gap is detached and a hole is drilled into the jaw bone.
- The implant is then screwed into the socket and a placeholder is inserted.
- The area is then thoroughly cleansed and disinfected.
- The gum flaps are replaced and sutured.
- This concludes the first half of the surgery. In the next three months, the area heals and the jaw bone grows around the implant fixing it in naturally.
- During your second visit, your doctor will remove the placeholder and take an exact impression of your missing tooth and put the placeholder back in. This impression is used to custom-make a tooth for you.
- In your 3rd visit, the doctor will remove the placeholder and put in an abutment that will connect the implant and the crown.
- The new tooth is placed over the abutment and is attached with an adhesive.
Post-op Care For Dental Implants
At Trident Dental Clinic, Dr.Chandrakanth Majeti says, “The success and the speed of recovery is hugely dependent on the post-op care. Even the best-sone surgeries can show complications if the patient gets careless with his oral hygiene.” Here’s what he suggests:
- Follow the doctor’s prescription religiously. Take the antibiotics, painkillers, and all other medicines on time!
- Always keep your mouth clean. Rinse your mouth with a mouthwash or betadine solution frequently.
- Drink water to keep your mouth moist.
- Stick to soft boiled foods for the first 2 weeks.
- Consult your doctor if you see any unpredicted redness, swelling, discharge, etc.